Black mold in bedroom: call landlord or hire pro?« Back to Previous Page

Contact your landlord first. In Dubai, landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the property's structure and fixing issues like mold caused by building defects or AC system problems. Document the issue with clear photos and send a formal written notification, as this creates a paper trail.

The location right above the AC vent is a major clue. This is often due to condensation from a poorly insulated cooling duct inside the ceiling void or a clogged drain line causing excess humidity. The damp feeling confirms a moisture source is active. Simply wiping the spots is ineffective and potentially hazardous if it's toxigenic mold; the root cause must be fixed.

For a proper treatment, the process must be diagnostic. A professional inspection should identify the moisture source first—often requiring a thermal camera or borescope to check the ductwork. Remediation involves isolating the area, removing contaminated materials safely, and HEPA vacuuming. Finally, the AC system must be cleaned and the duct insulation or drainage issue resolved to prevent immediate recurrence.

While you can hire a pro yourself, starting with the landlord is the standard procedure. If they are unresponsive, you can mention your right to arrange for necessary repairs as per RERA guidelines, though specifics can depend on your tenancy contract. For health safety and proper resolution, a certified mold inspection and remediation company is essential to handle this correctly.